1981 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 143 kg more than 1981 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 518 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1283 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |